TLDR
- Paulo Costa says he plans to fight before the end of 2026, possibly outside the UFC
- Costa is in a contract dispute with UFC over five-round fight compensation
- He has not fought since knocking out Azamat Murzakanov in April 2026
- Costa previously requested an interim title shot while champion Carlos Ulberg recovers from injury
- The Brazilian fighter says he has received no recent updates from the UFC
Sources: sherdog.com | sports.yahoo.com | heavy.com
UFC light heavyweight contender Paulo Costa says he plans to fight before the end of 2026, possibly outside the promotion. The Brazilian fighter is currently in a contract dispute with the UFC over the terms of his final bout.
Costa took to social media on October 12 to update fans on his situation. “Nothing from the UFC,” Costa wrote on X. “I’m going to fight at an event at the end of the year. I’m in great shape and in my prime. I’m going to do what I love—fight somewhere.”
Paulo Costa is still waiting on his call from the UFC pic.twitter.com/AUZxQHONXK
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) October 12, 2026
The fighter known as “Borrachinha” has publicly criticized the UFC for offering him five-round fights without extra pay. He wants to complete his current contract but has indicated on social media that he may compete in other organizations.
Costa holds a 16-4 record and is coming off back-to-back victories. He defeated Roman Kopylov before knocking out previously unbeaten Azamat Murzakanov with a third-round head kick in April 2026.
Costa Sought Interim Title Shot
After his win over Murzakanov, Costa became a top contender in the light heavyweight division. He previously requested an interim title fight while champion Carlos Ulberg recovers from an ACL injury.
The UFC did not book that fight. Ulberg is expected to return in the first or second quarter of 2027.
The most logical opponent for Costa would be former UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev. Ankalaev is also currently without a scheduled fight in the division.
A matchup between Costa and Ankalaev would pit two of the best 205-pound fighters against each other. The winner would likely move closer to a title shot.
What Happens Next in Light Heavyweight Division
UFC Qatar will feature a major light heavyweight bout between former champion Jiri Prochazka and undefeated contender Navajo Stirling. That fight could determine who faces Ulberg when the champion returns.
Costa said he has received no recent communication from the UFC about his next fight. Despite the silence from the promotion, he remains determined to compete before 2026 ends.
The Brazilian fighter has been inactive since April, marking over six months without a bout. He has used social media multiple times in recent months to express frustration with the UFC.
Costa’s contract dispute centers on compensation for championship-length fights. The UFC has reportedly offered him five-round bouts, which are typically reserved for title fights and main events, without increasing his pay.
The fighter maintains he is in peak physical condition and ready to compete. His recent performances support that claim, as he has won his last two fights convincingly.
Costa’s hint at fighting “somewhere” suggests he may be considering offers from other MMA organizations. Several promotions outside the UFC have signed high-profile fighters in recent years.
The fighter has not specified which organization he might join or when exactly he plans to compete. He only confirmed his intention to fight before the end of the year.
